At just 14, Ekagra Singh Rajput, a student of Apeejay Svran Global School, Sector 21-D, Faridabad, is a budding force to be reckoned with in the world of martial arts. A recent gold medalist at the 24th All Faridabad District Kickboxing Championship 2025, he performed an impressive nunchaku routine that left the judges spellbound. What makes his victory more special is the bond he shares with his father and coach, Sunil Rajput, who has mentored him since the age of four at Dragon Martial Arts Academy. In this heartwarming interview, the father-son duo opens up about their journey, discipline, and what lies ahead. Read Here:
Ekagra, congratulations! How long have you been practising kickboxing and what got you started?
Thank you! I’ve been doing kickboxing for the last 10 years—since I was 4. My inspiration has always been my father. He is a kickboxing coach and runs the Dragon Martial Arts Academy, where I’ve trained from the very beginning.
Tell us about the championship you just won. What did the event involve?
The 24th All Faridabad District Kickboxing Championship was held at KL Mehta School over a weekend. I participated in the Musical Form – Hard Style Weapon category. We had to demonstrate our martial arts skills to music—either using weapons or performing karate katas. I chose the nunchaku and choreographed a one-minute routine, judged by five officials. It felt incredible to win gold!
That’s impressive! Was Bruce Lee an influence in choosing the nunchaku?
Yes, absolutely! Bruce Lee is my idol. Watching his speed, focus, and control with the nunchaku always inspired me. I wanted to express that same energy and style during my routine—and it worked!
How do you balance your school life and training? What’s your daily schedule like?
I follow a disciplined routine. I wake up early and either go for a run or do indoor cycling. After a light breakfast, I attend school. Post school, I study for 3–4 hours. Then in the evening, I train for 1–2 hours at the academy. Training includes stretching, kicks, punches, fight practice, defence techniques, and weapon training. My school has also been very encouraging, even though I joined just a month ago.
What are your next goals in martial arts?
Right now, I’m aiming to win gold at the State Kickboxing Championship. That’s my short-term goal. Since I have dental braces currently, I’m focusing on musical forms. But next year, I hope to participate in the fighting category as well.
And finally, Mr. Sunil Rajput, as his coach and father, what is your message for young athletes?
I always tell my 200+ students that fitness, self-defence, and diet are the pillars of martial arts. Good training, proper nutrition, sound sleep, hydration, and time management help control stress and build discipline. Ekagra’s journey reflects this balance—and I hope many more follow his path with the same dedication.